FCVS Updates

Dear FCVS Families,

As we approach winter break, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the hard work, dedication, and perseverance shown by our students, families, and staff. It has been inspiring to watch our students grow, overcome challenges, and celebrate successes this year.

The break is a wonderful time to rest, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones. I also encourage our students to keep their minds engaged—whether that’s through reading a great book, exploring new interests, or practicing skills they’ve learned so far. Small efforts now can help set the stage for a strong start in the new year.

I wish each of you a joyful, safe, and restful holiday season. May it be filled with laughter, warmth, and meaningful moments with the people who matter most.

Warm regards,

Michael Watson

Principal, Frederick County Virtual School

Youth Apprenticeship

Jumpstart Your Career with the Youth Apprenticeship Program!

Are you a high school junior or senior looking to explore higher education in a specific field or start working right after graduation? The Youth Apprenticeship Program offers an incredible opportunity to:

• Earn while you learn with a 450-hour paid work experience.
• Gain valuable hands-on experience alongside industry professionals.
• Earn high school credit while building real-world skills.
• Graduate with a State Skill Certificate from the Maryland Department of Labor.

This program combines classroom learning with on-the-job training, allowing you to spend part of your school day gaining practical experience with a workplace mentor. You’ll earn weighted high school credits, receive an hourly wage, and develop skills that are in demand in the workforce.

Applications are now being accepted for January employment!

Interested?

• Contact: Mrs. Stelma at regina.stelma@fcps.org.
• Explore openings: Visit the FCPS site at https://www.fcps.org/academics/apprentice-program.

Take the first step toward your future today!

FCPS recently held a county-wide Young Author's contest. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of winners from FCVS! They will move on to compete at the county level. We wish them all luck in the next round of the competition.

• Sophia Germroth: 10th Grade Poetry
• Elika Roshan: 11th Grade Poetry
• Brooklyn Smith: 11th Grade Short Story

The Career and Technology Center recognizes students with exceptional talent and dedication to their chosen field of study during the annual SkillsUSA contest. Congratulations to:

• Christian Durham, 4th Place in TV Production

This year we are celebrating outstanding student and staff member Trailblazers at the end of each term. Nominate a student or staff member by January 20th for end of Term 2 recognition!

• FCVS Student Trailblazer Nomination Form
• FCVS Staff Trailblazer Nomination Form

Winter Break: December 23 - January 1

• Students have the opportunity to use the break to catch up on any overdue assignments if needed. Please keep in mind that teachers may not be available to respond to Schoology messages or emails during this time.

January 15: End of Semester 1

January 2 - January 15: MCAP testing is underway.

Please contact Lisa.Mott@fcps.org with questions or concerns about your scheduled exams.

LINKS TO ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

FCVS Quick Links

FCVS Technology Support

FCVS MCAP & SAT Information

Tutoring/Academic Support: FCPL Brainfuse HelpNow

School Improvement Plan (SIP). SY25 FCVS SIP Parent Hotsheet